Arneis, the Grape and Food Pairing

It is most commonly found in the hills of the Roero, northwest of Alba, where it is part of the white Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) wines of Roero.

It can also be used to produce DOC wines in Langhe. Arneis (literally: little rascal, in Piemontese) is so called because it is regarded as a somewhat difficult variety to grow. It is a crisp and floral varietal, and has been grown for centuries in the region. The white wines made from the Arneis grape tend to be dry and full body with notes of pears and apricots. With food, Arneis is traditionally paired with light pastas and also pairs well with fish. Arneis often makes a nice “transition” wine from the lighter whites of summer to the heavier reds of winter.